The Board of
Review is an autonomous, quasi-judicial agency created by Rhode Island
General Law. Our primary function is to hear and render
decisions on appeals arising from the Department
of Labor & Training (DLT), Unemployment Compensation and
Temporary Disability Insurance divisions, and from employers on
certain contested tax status issues. The Board of Review is
statutorily independent from the Department of Labor and Training.

When an
individual is separated from employment, DLT makes an initial
determination of eligibility for benefits through a fact-finding
interview with the employee (claimant) and the employer. An appeal can
be made by the claimant when the benefits have been denied, or by the
employer when benefits have been awarded to the claimant. Once an
appeal is made, the case enters the jurisdiction of the Board of
Review and a hearing is scheduled before a hearing officer (Referee).
Your right to appeal to the full Board of Review is also discussed on
this site. This site offers general information and does not have the
force or effect of law or official regulations.